Black Pearls: Discover the Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism

Close up detail of excellent round Tahitian Black Pearls.No people. Copy space
© ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock.com

Written by Kathleen Marshall

Updated: November 14, 2023

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The beauty and mystery of black pearls make them highly sought after by people around the world. This color is rare and only comes from the black-lipped oysters in Tahiti, but they aren’t actually black. Instead, they appear as dark green, blue, purple, silver, gray, or “peacock.”  However, you can also find pearls that have been dyed. 

But what is the meaning behind these pearls? What do they symbolize? Let’s take a look.

What Do Black Pearls Symbolize?

The black pearl symbolizes many things, depending on who you ask. Historically, they were worn by the rich and powerful, likely due to their rarity.

Close up detail of excellent round Tahitian Black Pearls.No people. Copy space

Natural black pearls come in an assortment of dark shades.

©ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock.com

Eternal Love and Power

One legend of these beauties is from Polynesia, where real black pearls originate. According to the story, Oro, the god of war, descended to Earth on a rainbow carrying a black pearl oyster. He fell in love with the princess of Bora Bora and gave her the oyster as a gift, representing his eternal love for her as well as his great power.

Wealth

Due to their rarity, black pearls are a symbol of wealth. It’s little wonder as they can range in price from $250 up to $30,000.

Protection

String of black pearls in a sea shell on white

A black pearl necklace may offer protection for the wearer.

©Tish1/Shutterstock.com

As with many black gemstones, people consider black pearls to have protective powers for the wearer. Many people believe they ward off evil and keep the wearer safe from harm.

Wisdom and Strength

Black pearls represented wisdom in ancient China. According to legend, pearls formed in the heads of dragons. In Chinese culture, dragons are perceived as wise, and legends say they carry the pearls between their teeth to keep them safe, only releasing the treasure upon their death.

Healing

Pearls of any color are believed to offer healing properties. In addition, they are thought to have a calming effect and the ability to create balance both physically and spiritually.

Black ones can indicate that you have something of value to offer and you aren’t seeing your unique gifts.

Meaning Of Dreaming About Pearls

One Round Tahitian Black Pearl in a Black lip oyster shell.

These rare beauties may represent your own valuable qualities and gifts.

©ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock.com

In a dream, pearls may represent something highly valued, but they may also represent spiritual awakening or deep emotions. Sometimes, pearls may symbolize your wishes or secret desires.

Black ones can indicate that you have something of value to offer and you aren’t seeing your unique gifts. Dreaming of these pearls can also mean you must establish stronger personal boundaries to protect yourself from those who don’t have your best interests at heart.


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About the Author

Kathleen Marshall is a master gardener, animal lover, and general worshipper of nature. She has been writing and editing since 1996 and when she's not working, she's playing with her two dogs, talking to her always-hungry koi, or spending time in her garden gathering plants for nourishment, medicine, and magic.

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